Basic Types of Dental Crowns: Classification and Benefits

How Are Dental Crowns Installed?

In the context of tooth restoration, there are numerous procedures to choose from within general dentistry in Edgartown. Some of these procedures are more complicated than others, and each one has various advantages and disadvantages that must be considered.Among these options, dental crown procedures are often simplest and most straightforward.

The dental crown process in Edgartown, MA, involves “crowns” strategically placed on top of teeth that have been worn down by decay or years of use.Aftera thin outer layer of the tooth is removed, an impression is created. The impression will be used as a basis for the structure of the crown to be made.

A dental lab is usually in charge of creating the crown. After a few weeks, you will be called back to visit our dental practiceto have the finished crown finally fitted and cemented in.

Types of Dental Crowns

Cosmetic Crowns

Also referred to as “ceramic” crowns, these are made with porcelain. In general dentistry, they are deemed “cosmetic” because they offer an aesthetic that closely resembles a patient’s natural teeth. A porcelain crown is a good substitute for a zirconia dental crown.

The natural appearance of porcelain crowns is why it’s a favorite among patients. It is for this reason that it is utilized in restoring anterior teeth (front teeth). Porcelain crowns are almost indistinguishable from natural teeth.

Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal

A common fusion of materials when it comes to dental crowns is porcelain and metal. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns offer style and function. The porcelain material allowsthe crown to easily blend in with natural teeth, while the metal material serves as additional support in strengthening the foundation of the crown.

This fusion brings about a durable bond, as the metal’s oxides are chemically combined with the porcelain elements.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is one of the most relied upon to save badly decaying, at-risk teeth. It is selected specifically for its resilience and toughness. After all, stainless steel is renowned for its strength, corrosion-resistance, and lightness.

Though stainless steel does not blend in naturally with your teeth, it is excellent for crowning molars or teeth with multiple lesions. If fillings will no longer fortify the decaying and weakened tooth, it is best to crown it with stainless steel.

You do not need to worry about appearance because these crowns are mostly used for premolars and molars, which are situated at the back of your jawline and away from people’s general line of sight.

All-Resin

All-resin crowns are typically recommended only for replacing or safeguarding baby teeth. They are more economical than the rest of the known materials used for tooth crowns. However, the resin is quite thin and is, thus, vulnerable to wear and tear.

Dental restorations for children who still have their primary teeth are performed with all-resin crowns. Since permanent teeth will replace their milk teeth after some time, the resin’s durability is not a hindrance.

Gold Alloys

Gold alloy crowns are not “pure gold” in the strictest definition of the phrase. In fact, they are usually a combination of gold and other metals. Chromium, nickel, and palladium are the usual elements combined with gold to create an alloy.

Similar to metal crowns, gold alloys have a metallic finish to them. Although theydo not blend in naturally with your teeth, some people prefer the look of gold crowns.

In addition, gold crowns have outstanding characteristics of durability and longevity. With proper oral hygiene and dental care, they can endure and retain their original make for decades.

Our Take on Dental Crowns

At present, there are numerous ways to save a tooth. Dental crowns are at the forefront of restoring your smile without having to completely extract damaged teeth. It is most certainly an alternative that will not only restore the beauty of your pearly whites, butit will also shield your teeth from decay in the future.

You should consult with your dental practitioner about what dental crown type and material are suitable for you. To book an appointment with our experienced dentist, give Edgartown Dental Group a call.